When you’re building an extension on your home, you don’t want it to be at odds with the rest of the property: you want it to be discreet and unobtrusive, as though it’s a natural extension of your house. This is particularly relevant to period properties, where a slight mismatch in colour or style can impinge on the entire character of a house. Designing an extension that blends beautifully with the existing structure will enable you to create a home that is as unique as when it was first built, but with the addition of your own personal touch.
A perfect match
It’s generally advisable to hire professional contractors, such as the Hamilton Windows team, to help with your extension project. They have a working knowledge of products and suppliers, meaning they’ll quickly be able to identify and source ideal building materials. Saying that, having a hand in choosing materials is important. Here are some tips for creating a perfect match.
Brickwork
It can be tricky to match old and new bricks, but it’s an essential part of building an extension. Look carefully at the colour, size, bond and texture of the original bricks: a shade too bright or a size too small could ruin the whole effect. Many manufacturers offer bespoke brick matching services, or you could ask about brick tinting. Before you buy, ask your supplier for samples so that you can check the new bricks against your property.
Windows
Regardless of the age of your property, matching your new windows with the original design is integral. Many properties have distinctive window features that should be carried through – glazing bars (a Georgian style) or latticework (common in Tudor buildings), for example. Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing windows for your new extension:
- Your new windows should reflect the size and proportion of the original windows
- Remember that the small details, such as handles, also need to be matched
- Make sure the orientation of the windows is the same – as in, if your property’s windows have a vertical emphasis, it might look odd to install horizontal windows
- Any nuances in your property’s windows, such as arches or the number of glass panes, should be replicated
Roofs
Just as with brickwork, your extension’s roof needs to look identical to the original. Take note of the colour, orientation, size and material of your tiles – it’s relatively easy (and affordable) to have replica tiles made, either using the original product or a cheaper version.
Here at Hamilton Windows, we’re experienced in helping homeowners carry out home improvements that complement, rather than go against, the original design. Contact us today to find out how we can help to transform your home.
